Home > About Us > History

History of United Way of Ocean County

UWOC began in 1969 as an offshoot of Monmouth County United Charities when Ed Moran spearheaded the movement to raise funds for Ocean County residents in need.

In October 1975 United Charities began its first workplace campaigns to raise funds through payroll deductions to support local human service agencies in Ocean County. By October 1976 United Charities had incorporated into the United Way of Ocean County.

Evolution

For the past 30 years, UWOC has focused on the most critical health and human service needs of our community…where you live and dream. Partnering with generous donors, businesses, government, service organizations and other non-profits, UWOC is exceptionally proactive and enterprising…our initiatives, campaigns and sound solutions support a higher quality of life for our neediest residents and, ultimately, for you.

Investing in your community through UWOC is a secure and effective way to improve Ocean County.

History of United Way of America

“United Way” began in 1887 when a priest, two ministers and a rabbi recognized the need for cooperation to address Denver’s welfare problems. These religious leaders put their heads and hearts together and formed the Charitable Organizations Society in Denver, Colorado. These first United Ways were called Community Chests and raised money for needy residents in local communities.

Role of United Way of America After years in the traditional role of fundraiser, United Way of America’s current mission focuses on helping to identify and address the long-term needs of each individual community. The national organization sets standards, offers training, support services, but gives no monetary support to local United Way chapters.

Each local United Way chapter is totally independent and self-supporting and pays yearly dues to United Way of America.

Wise Investors - Well over 12 million people invest in United Ways annually through the following categories: Workplace Campaigns, Leadership and Tocqueville Giving Societies, Planned Giving, Memorials & Tributes and designated contributions.

United Ways mobilize one of the largest volunteer networks in the country in the following capacities: board members, loaned executives, Funding Allocations Review Team volunteers, campaign coordinators, Special Events volunteers and other direct service volunteers.

United Way of Ocean County is autonomous and managed by volunteers. Our community-based volunteer network provides oversight of every detail of UWOC’s operations, from fundraising to fund distribution to financial management.